PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — A Franklin County teacher and basketball coach was shot and killed Sunday night in Gretna.

Authorities received a call at around 9:20 p.m. on July 27 regarding a shooting at Carter’s #2 convenience store on West Gretna Road.

The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Gretna Police Department, and Virginia State Police responded to the scene, where they found Tony Demond Gill, 46, of Franklin County, dead.

Gill was a beloved special education teacher and the head coach of the girls’ basketball team at Franklin County High School.

In a message to the school community, Principal Reyhan Deskins described him as “a mentor, role model, and friend to countless scholars, staffulty members, and families within our school community.”

Counseling services will be available for students and staff at the school’s Phelps Student Services building through July 31.

Deputies located and arrested James Richard Mattox, 52, at the scene without incident.

Authorities said Gill and Mattox were known to each other.

Mattox has been charged with murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

He had his initial court appearance Monday morning in Pittsylvania County General District Court and is being held without bond.

A bond hearing is scheduled for August 19 at 10 a.m., and a preliminary hearing is set for September 15 at 1:30 p.m., both in Pittsylvania County General District Court.

Gill’s body has been transported to the medical examiner’s office to determine the official cause and manner of death.

The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to interview potential witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office Division of Investigations at 434-432-7715 or CrimeStoppers at 434-791-0044.

Callers may remain anonymous.

Copyright 2025 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.